SOO-Kitchener-Waterloo hosts successful Dirty Dash Fundraiser

Dirtydash triumph

Christopher Nowak (centre) leads a group to the finish Sunday in the mud pit at the annual Dirty Dash race at Bechtel Park in Waterloo.

WATERLOO — This was not your typical race.

More than 700 people jumped over hay bales, waded across a river and attempted to run, wallow and crawl through a 21-metre (70-foot) long mud pit for the annual Dirty Dash at Bechtel Park on Sunday.

The Dirty Dash, organized by the Waterloo Running Series, is a fun running or walking event that promotes fitness while raising funds for the Kitchener-Waterloo chapter of Special Olympics Ontario.

Participants of all ages could race in the four- or eight-kilometre events, or take part in a one-kilometre kids "fun run."

"I think it embraces the spirit of Special Olympics. We're here to promote sport and have a good time, but we're also here to compete," said Jennifer Mondell, fundraising co-ordinator for Special Olympics.

For serious runners, the event offered a more challenging terrain and exciting atmosphere than the typical five- or 10-kilometre race.

"It gives (runners) an opportunity to maybe not be as competitive and have a bit of fun," said event organizer Lloyd Schmidt.

The event raised over $7,000 for Special Olympics K-W and saw record numbers take part.

Waterloo Running Series is also planning a new "colour run" where participants will get splashed with paint along the course. The Colour Run will be held on Aug. 24 and proceeds from the event will support local charities.